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Recovery of pupillomotor function after cataract surgery
1Ophthalmology Branch, USAF School of Aerospace Medicine, Brooks Air Force Base, Texas.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Cataract surgery generally preserves pupillomotor function. Post-surgery pupillary responses in aviators show minimal changes, indicating normal pupil function recovery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Surgical Science
Background:
- Cataract surgery is a common procedure.
- Pupillomotor function is crucial for visual performance, especially in demanding professions like aviation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of extracapsular cataract extraction with intraocular lens implantation on pupillomotor function.
- To assess the recovery of pupillary response to light after cataract surgery.
Main Methods:
- Video infrared pupillometry was used to measure pupillary responses in four subjects.
- Pupillary responses of operated eyes were compared to non-operated eyes 6-20 weeks post-surgery.
Main Results:
- Operated eyes showed minimal differences (2-14%) in constriction amplitudes and peak velocities compared to non-operated eyes.
- No significant dilation lag or segmental palsy was observed in operated eyes.
- Pupillary constriction latency remained normal after surgery.
Conclusions:
- Extracapsular cataract extraction with intraocular lens implantation does not significantly impair pupillomotor function.
- Aviators undergoing routine cataract surgery can expect normal pupil function recovery.
- Concerns about visual disability due to impaired pupil dilation or constriction after surgery are likely unwarranted.